First Textbooks for New EASA 2020 ATPL Syllabus

ATPL theory publisher, Padpilot has announced the release of the first ATPL theory books for the new EASA 2020 syllabus. The Padpilot series of ‘2nd Edition’ ATPL (A) books is now available for use by ab-initio pilot training academies and ground schools and can also be downloaded directly from Apple Books.

Thedigital manuals can be read on any Apple device and are fully compliant withthe updated content and Learning Objectives from EASA’s 2020 theoreticalknowledge syllabus.

EASAstated: “The last significant technical update of the syllabi and LOs for theairline transport pilot licence (ATPL), multi-crew pilot licence (MPL),commercial pilot licence (CPL), and instrument rating (IR) theoreticalknowledge courses for aeroplane and helicopter categories was conducted in 2006.Given the emergence of new technologies and the advancement of trainingphilosophy, there was a need to review, amend, and update these LOs (wherenecessary). The theoretical knowledge training for ATPL, MPL, CPL and IRsshould provide all the necessary knowledge and competencies to prepare pilotsfor performing state-of-the-art flight operations. The opportunity to reviewthe applicable examination procedures, as required was also taken.”

The newsyllabus is now in effect, although there is a lengthy overlap period with theold one. Dates for the first new syllabus exams vary between EASA member states,with some Approved Training Organisations (ATOs), for example in Sweden,already teaching the new syllabus with the corresponding new exams scheduled(pre-COVID-19) to begin there in May 2020.

Accordingto EASA regulations, the old syllabus remains valid until 31 January 2022 whenthe final ATPL examinations will take place. However, the UK has been grantedan extension, and the old syllabus will remain valid until the final exams inJune 2022. During the current quarantine restrictions, many of Padpilot’s 58partner ATPs have been able to move their ground school classes online, andtheoretical knowledge instruction is continuing. However, due to the pandemic,ATPL exams are currently cancelled until further notice. The first exams forthe new syllabus in the UK are scheduled to start this summer, although may nowbe delayed.